Can I Drink Tap Water in Bhutan?

Tap water in Bhutan requires caution. Safety and reliability vary by location and property, so bottled or properly filtered water is often the safer default for travelers. World Bank 2024/2024 estimates indicate about 65.6% safely managed drinking water services and 99.5% basic drinking water access. Bhutan has very high basic drinking water access, but safely managed coverage is notably lower, which supports a cautious traveler recommendation for tap water. Travelers usually reduce risk with bottled, boiled, or filtered water, especially outside major hotels.

This gap suggests many households have access to water but not consistently safe, monitored, and reliably managed water at the tap. World Bank 2024/2024 estimates indicate about 65.6% safely managed drinking water services and 99.5% basic drinking water access. Seasonal rains, local treatment capacity, and building-level conditions can change tap-water reliability. Travelers usually reduce risk with bottled, boiled, or filtered water, especially outside major hotels.

Tap water in Bhutan requires caution. Safety and reliability vary by location and property, so bottled or properly filtered water is often the safer default for travelers. Travelers usually reduce risk with bottled, boiled, or filtered water, especially outside major hotels. Seasonal rains, local treatment capacity, and building-level conditions can change tap-water reliability. When in doubt, bottled or properly treated water is the safer choice for drinking and dental hygiene.